Presenter Dr Donald McMenamin – PhD put together 3 days of professional development for health care professionals, Thursday, Friday and Saturday last week with 10-15 people attending each day, a huge success for counsellors, physiotherapists, and pastoral carers and other mental health professionals. Donald McMenamin is the author of : TWO ISLANDS AND A BOAT: Finding and Following a Vision for more information. www.twoislandsandaboat.com. For 30 years Donald has worked in New Zealand High Schools, as a teacher and guidance counsellor, taught Degree and Masters counselling, supervised counsellors and offered private practice counselling. His own Masters in Counselling thesis explored restorative practices, and Doctoral studies further developed how new identity stories can make a difference for young people – particularly those in trouble at school. Since then his work has developed these ideas and practices within the wider community”. Dr Donald McMenamin also graciously provided a free seminar to the public last Wednesday night. This was advertised in the local papers and well attended. Donald taught about his restorative practices and through storytelling, he showed the group how to use everyday examples of perceived bad reputations and turn behaviours into positive mindsets and develop new stories, with positive stories for people to move forward with. Feedback from those attending included “when is he coming back” and “what an extremely helpful and positive learning experience for all”.
KAPITI COAST FUNERAL HOME Is hoping to sponsor another Professional Development and Community Seminar in the spring.
Donald McMenamin is the author of : TWO ISLANDS AND A BOAT: Finding and Following a Vision
www.twoislandsandaboat.com
